We offer our heartfelt condolences to her daughter and our colleague, leader and friend PPFA President Cecile Richards and the entire family. The nation lost a truly remarkable individual whose wit, tenacity, and vision captivated us and inspired people across racial, gender and economic divides. We mourn her loss and celebrate her life and legacy.

Many Americans have expressed their condolences to the Richards family by sharing their memories of this remarkable woman and her work:

Senator John Kerry: "Intelligence, eloquence, wit, and moxie, Ann Richards was a great American maverick who had it all. She carved out a special place in history, in politics, and in our hearts ... Her larger-than-life leadership will be missed by all of us who knew her, but most of all by the family that loved her, including Cecile, who carries on her passion for progressive causes."

President Bill Clinton and Senator Hillary Clinton: "Ann always spoke her mind, and her heart, and her political tenacity was a result of her great passion to improve the lives of others. Her steadfast commitment to her beliefs and her desire to do what was best for the people of Texas was an example to all who serve the American people. Her legendary wit and sense of humor always brightened our day and brought relief to many."

U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi: "She will be remembered for her devastating wit and her gigantic heart, which led her to make real and lasting improvements for all Americans. From health care, to education, to opening the doors of government to all, Ann Richards was one of our nation's most fierce champions for expanding opportunity."

Molly Ivins: "She was so generous with her responses to other people. If you told Ann Richards something really funny, she wouldn't just smile or laugh, she would stop and break up completely. She taught us all so much ..."

Liz Smith: "I am unable to express how diminished those of us who really knew and loved her feel. She was young at heart, truly beautiful, comic, serious, dedicated, loyal - a champion for women, for minorities and for common sense."